Courtesy of Joe Mercurio
I was delighted to see your story on the gentleman who is helping political refugees attend Adirondack summer camps [“Refuge in the Adirondacks, July/August 2015].
I first encountered the magnificence and lore of the Adirondacks when I began work in 1957 at Adirondack Woodcraft Camps, a private camp near Old Forge. I would venture to say that summer camp for boys and girls has been one of the greatest sources of initiation to the Adirondacks. This is true not only of the campers, but for their parents as well. I know, from Woodcraft alone, many families who have returned again and again to the Adirondacks. Many acquired property for permanent or vacation residences. I’m sure this is true for many other camps in the Adirondacks.
In addition there is the substantial contribution to the Adirondack economy during visiting days by parents who fill the motels and resorts and restaurants and attractions all over the Adirondack map. It is a significant surge of revenue.
Another measure of success is the number of campers who have sent their children and grandchildren to Adirondack summer camps.
I have happy and rewarding memories of my years at Woodcraft, wonderful friendships with leaders and campers, and an indescribable appreciation for the wonders of the Adirondack woods and waters.
Jack Winans, Ann Arbor, Michigan
